Author Archives: Jay Butchko

A Basic Guide to U.S. Immigration Law
Immigration law is so complex because it incorporates not only various laws, regulations, and policies, but it also includes Executive Orders, case law, handbooks, and more. As a result, immigration law can be quite nuanced and is constantly changing. Immigration lawyers are tasked with understanding every aspect of immigration law and staying current on… Read More »

Understanding When the Commission of a Crime Becomes Grounds for Deportation for Non-citizens in the U.S.
The best advice for non-citizens living in the United States is to avoid criminal activity. Committing a crime could result in deportation. There are several reasons why a non-citizen may be deported. Committing a crime is a major one. However, making a mistake and doing something unlawful does not always end in removal from… Read More »

Understanding Prosecutorial Discretion in a U.S Deportation Case
Finding out that you are going to be deported can be very difficult to deal with. You may feel confused, sad, and scared about what to expect and what your options are for staying in the country and avoiding removal. During these trying times it is important not to go through the process alone…. Read More »

Considerations for Foreign-Born High School Students in the United States
For an average American citizen who was born and raised in the United States, going to high school can be a challenge. There is so much pressure. Navigating all of the obstacles and expectations can be incredibly difficult when you are a teenager. From getting good grades to excelling in sports and doing it… Read More »

What is an Arriving Alien?
Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations § 1.2 defines “Arriving Alien” as someone who comes to the United States through a port of entry or who is attempting to travel through the country. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), an “Applicant for Admission” is the term for a person who has not… Read More »

Can You Reapply for a Revoked Green Card?
If you have a Green Card, you are likely looking forward to becoming a permanent U.S. citizen. A Green Card allows you to stay in the country legally and permanently, and it also allows you to earn a living through gainful employment. However, there are conditions that have to be met to be in… Read More »

When To Replace Your Green Card
If you have a Green Card, there may be instances where it must be replaced. Replacing your Green Card can be done by filling out the Form I-90. You can do this online or by mail. Usually, doing so online is the easiest and most convenient way. When you file Form I-90 online, you… Read More »

What to Know About Preparing For Your K-1 Visa Interview
Just because you are expecting to marry a U.S. citizen does not mean that you are guaranteed to get your K-1 visa. Compared to other non-immigrant visas issued each year in the U.S., K-1 visas are not issued often. There are several common hurdles that couples wanting to go the K-1 visa route experience… Read More »

What to Do After A Final Order of Removal From the United States
You may have thought that you did your due diligence in researching what was necessary to get through the U.S. immigration system and that you completed every step correctly. Then you learn that your immigration case was denied, and you undoubtedly feel confused and upset by this finding. Having your immigration case denied is… Read More »

Explaining the Matter of Lozada in the U.S. Immigration System
When people use lawyers, they do so because they don’t understand the law and want a professional to help them with their case so they have the best chance to get the desired outcome. Unfortunately, not all attorneys are equal. Meaning that some attorneys are better suited to their roles, maybe are more ethical,… Read More »